Rule Book & Guide to Wrestling FREESTYLE, GRECO-ROMAN & FEMALE WRESTLING 2021 Edition—FOR ALL AGE DIVISIONS Last Updated: 03/11/2020 12:36:03 *The official UWW rule book supersedes this publication at all times. This rule book does not reflect rule modifications for UWW qualifiers or international competitions.
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Rule Book & Guide to WrestlingFREESTYLE, GRECO-ROMAN & FEMALE WRESTLING
2021 Edition—FOR ALL AGE DIVISIONS
Last Updated: 03/11/2020 12:36:03
*The official UWW rule book supersedes this publication at all times. This rule book does not reflect rule modifications for UWW qualifiers or international competitions.
Table Of Contents1. Foreword
2. Modern Wrestling
3. Weigh-In Procedure
4. The Bout
5. The Mat
6. The Refereeing Body
7. Call to the Mat
8. Interruption of the Bout
9. End of the Bout
10. Value Assigned to Actions and Holds
11. 1 Point Actions
12. 2 Point Actions
13. 4 Point Actions
14. 5 Point Actions
15. Passivity
16. Negative Wrestling
17. Illegal Actions and Holds
18. Brutality
19. The Coach
20. Classification Points
21. 2020 Points of Emphasis
22. Video Challenge Procedures
23. Age Divisions and Weight Classes
24. USAW Modification for Folkstyle Events with Video Challenge
25. Appendix A--Medical Service Regulations
ForewordWrestling, like all other sports, obeys rules that constitute the “Rule of the Game” and define its practice, the aim of
which is to “pin” the opponent or to win by scoring more points.
Greco-Roman (G/R) and Freestyle (F/S) wrestling basically differ as follows:
In Greco-Roman Wrestling, it is strictly forbidden to grasp the opponent below the beltline or to trip him or to use the
legs actively on his opponent to perform any action.
In Freestyle and Women’s Wrestling (WW), however, it is permissible to grasp the legs of the opponent, to trip him
or her and to use the legs actively to perform any action. Lo
Beach Wrestling and Folkstyle Wrestling are subject to specific regulations that are not addressed in this publication.
Frequently modified and always subject to further modification, the rules set forth herein must be known and
accepted by all wrestlers, coaches, referees and leaders. They call upon those who practice the sport to fight totally
and universally, with complete honesty and fair play for the pleasure of the spectators. This rulebook is being
continually updated.
Modern Wrestling This rule book contains the USA Wrestling rules pertaining to Freestyle and Greco-Roman styles of wrestling, as
dictated by the international governing body of wrestling, United World Wrestling (UWW), and modified for age-
group competition within the United States. All Senior, University and UWW age group events sanctioned in the
United States will adhere to the UWWrules with some modifications to the pairings procedures, weigh-ins and
protest procedures.
This rulebook is fluid--UWW makes adjustments to the rules periodically to help the sport adapt to changes it
sees during higher level competitions, which trickle down to all levels in our domestic system. The rules are
generally made with the Senior athlete in mind, but appropriate modifications to these rules are made by USA
Wrestling to cater towards the younger athlete in terms of ability and overall safety. Officials will use tactics,
commands, and strict application of the rules to see that the ideals of total universal wrestling are obeyed.
Regardless of what rules are utilized, there are some basic principles that govern wrestling and the application of
any rules currently in place or that shall be adopted in the future. The principles are as follows:
Universal wrestling: Universal wrestling is a quality which enriches the sport. Universal wrestling requires a
variety of actions and holds, and the development of new techniques. It applies to wrestling in the standing and par
terre positions. The wrestler must strive to master the techniques involved in as many scoring actions as possible.
The wrestler, who exhibits diversity in their performance throughout the match, is wrestling universally. This
mentality exists in both offensive and defensive situations where wrestlers are expected to attack and counterattack
continuously during the match.
Passivity: penalty for not actively scoring points or attempting to score points. Any attempt to avoid wrestling —by blocking, by pushing, by going out of bounds, by “playing the edge” can be deemed to be passivity. In matches
where neither athlete is scoring many points, passivity can be called to help stimulate scoring. Passivity is not to be
confused with “fleeing.”
Risk: Risk is the willingness of the wrestler to expose themselves to the possible loss of position or points during
attempts to score against their opponents. The courage to take risks is a quality of the strong wrestler. The coach
must insist upon development of this quality and instill this quality in all wrestlers. The concept of risk in wrestling
should not be misinterpreted; it does not mean that the wrestler can execute a hold improperly and not lose points or
the advantage of their position.
Weigh-In ProcedureNo wrestler may be accepted at the weigh-in if they have not undergone a medical examination within the
time period stipulated in the regulations governing the competition in question. Medical examinations are
always performed before the weigh-in at all levels of competition.
Wrestlers must show their USA card and registration form to receive a weigh-in card.
The contestants will be weighed wearing their “competition singlet* without modifications and without their
shoes after having been examined by qualified trainers and/or physicians who are obliged to eliminate any
wrestler who presents any danger of contagious disease.
No weight tolerance will be allowed for the singlet at any age level.
Wrestlers should not be allowed to change out of their singlets into their normal attire in the weigh-in area.
The wrestlers should be directed to a private area away from the weigh-in area to change their clothes.
Contestants must be in perfect physical condition, with their fingernails cut very short. A wrestler’s face
and/or head hair (if short in appearance) must be cleanly shaven or have growth that is non-abrasive.
For all the competitions, wrestlers may only weigh-in at one weight.
Any means of drastic weight reduction is strictly prohibited. The practice of dehydration by use of rubber,
plastic or rubberized nylon suits, hot rooms, hot showers, hot boxes, saunas, steam rooms, heating devices,
diuretics, emetics, laxatives, excessive food or fluid restriction and self induced vomiting is a violation of USA
Wrestling rules. Violation of these rules shall cause the individual(s) to be disqualified from the competition.
Athletes may not leave the weigh-in area or initiate any activity for means of weight reduction.
For Cadet & Junior Division National Championships multiple day weigh-ins have been adopted and weigh-
ins shall occur a maximum of 4 hours prior to initial competition. For the second day weigh-in a 2 lb
allowance shall be given.
For the Kids FS/GR Nationals and Kids/Cadet Regional Competitions, weigh-ins shall occur as established by
the Kids/Cadet Council and Region Councils, respectively. For Kids/Cadet Region competition, an athlete
may weigh-in for both styles at the first style’s initial weigh-in if competing in the first style. For National
Competition in the Kids Division, wrestlers need only weigh-in once if competing in both styles.
For any Regional or National championship, any weigh-in shall only be valid the day of weigh-ins plus 2
additional days.
For all Junior Division Regionals, weigh-ins shall occur a maximum of three and a minimum of two hours prior
to competition on the first day of competition, and athletes may weigh-in for both styles at the first style’s initial
weigh-in if competing in the first style. For all other divisions weigh-ins shall occur as established by their
respective National Councils or Sports Committee.
For all Kids, Cadet, UWWCadet, Junior, UWWJunior, and U23 division regional and national events, weigh-
ins shall begin at the designated time to conclusion, except when the competition is a qualifying event for a
World level competition. In that case, UWWrules shall apply, with USAWrestling modifications. All athletes
must be present at the beginning of the designated weigh-in time. Athletes shall have two consecutive
attempts to make weight, the initial attempt when called to the scale and an immediate challenge of another
tournament provided scale or designated “over” scale located in close proximity to the initial weigh-in scale(s).
All Senior, UWW Cadet, UWW Junior and U23 events have adopted a two-day weigh-in format. The first
weigh-in will occur the morning of the first day of competition and shall last 30 minutes; all athletes must attain
scratch weight. The second weigh-in will occur the morning of the second day of competition and will only
involve the competitors still active in the weight category; this weigh-in shall only last for 15 minutes, unless
otherwise noted. Athletes must attain scratch weight for the second weigh-in.
For Kids, Cadet, UWW Cadet and Junior divisions, a wrestler who does not weigh-in, or fails to make weight
according to the above restrictions, cannot place and is eliminated. No other athletes may be moved up,
outside the final four in each pool, for placing purposes. This rule does not apply to wrestlers issued a red
medical alert form.
All competitors in Masters Class C, D and E must present a letter of medical clearance at USA Wrestling
National Events medical check to weigh-in that states the competitor is cleared to compete without any
restriction. The letter must state that the competitor has the cardiovascular ability to compete in an intense,
vigorous competition per UWW Regulations. The letter must be dated within 90 days of competition. The letter
must clearly identify the location and contact information for the MD or DO who authorized the athlete for
competition.
*Officials responsible for the weigh-in must check that the wrestler’s singlet is the singlet they will use for the
competition. The singlet must be colored predominantly a clearly distinguishable shade of red or blue or one that
mimics the UWW color scheme assuming the following criteria are met:
The dominant color of red singlets shall be comprised of white, orange, pink, red, yellow, brown or gold AND
include the 3 color band markings as described below.
The dominant color of blue singlets shall be black, blue, green, grey, purple or silver AND include the 3 color
band markings as described below.
All state singlets shall have a total of three (3) markings consisting of:
Two 7 cm bands, one on each leg, shall be positioned across the bottom edge of the leg. For clear
distinction, the marking shall cover the circumference of the leg.
One 7 cm band positioned on the backside of the upper torso. The band shall be exclusively placed on
the back half of the singlet (not visible on the front half).
The three markings must remain untouched from any graphic, logo or third party identification.
The red markings shall be Pantone 2347C and blue markings shall be Pantone 299C.
For Cadet and Junior Division National Championships (“Fargo”), athletes must wear their state approved
singlet. For males, only a high cut is allowed. Athletes competing in USAWSenior Team Trials shall be
required to wear the “high cut” singlet as stipulated by UWW. The use of a low cut or two-piece
singlet/uniform is not allowed at any Freestyle or Greco-Roman USAW Regional or National Championship.
For any regional, national, or international competitions held in the United States, female competitors in all age divisions must wear a women's cut singlet.
The BoutThe use of protective headgear of the type required for scholastic wrestling is authorized and recommended
in Junior, Cadet, and UWW Cadet competition. Headgear is allowed in Masters, Senior, U23, and UWW
Junior competition. It is no longer required that headgear be removed in the UWW age divisions at the
request of the opponent. Headgear is mandatory for all Schoolboy/girl and younger in all USAW Regional and National Championships. In any division, a face mask is allowed only to protect an existing
injury, or an injury occurring during the bout, and must be prescribed by a medical doctor or the event’s chief
medical officer.
Wrestlers must wear shoes designed specifically for wrestling, with firm ankle support. Furthermore,
competitors are required to tape their shoe laces down (wrestlers must provide their own tape) or wear a
wrestling shoe fixed with an apparatus that prevents unfastening of the laces. If the laces of a wrestler come
undone during a match, that wrestler can be penalized by his/her opponent receiving one point.
Women wrestlers must wear a properly fitting sports bra underneath their singlets.
All wrestlers are prohibited to:
Wear bandages on wrists, arms or ankles except in the case of injury and on doctor’s orders. These
bandages must be covered with elastic straps. Hard (knee) braces must be covered with a minimum of ½
inch closed cell neoprene padding. Currently, USAW modifications allow for the wearing of the “stocking “
knee pad in FS and Greco as long as skin was visible above and below the covering. There must be a pad
at the knee. The chief medical officer or head athletic trainer (or if unavailable, the head wrestling official),
prior to competition, has final approval for any accessory taping or protective equipment. .
Wearing any tape on only one finger. Tape can be worn to provide support to two or more fingers. Again, the
chief medical officer or head athletic trainer has final approval of any accessory taping worn by the athlete.
Apply any greasy or sticky substance to the body.
Arrive at the mat perspiring for the beginning of the first or second periods of a match. It is the responsibility
of the coach and the wrestler to report dry and “toweled down”. Referees may not mandate that wrestlers “dry
off” during the middle of a period.
It is forbidden to wear earrings, barrettes, bracelets, rings, or any metal or rigid object, as well as men’s
wrestling singlet with a T-shirt underneath. Female wrestlers are prohibited from wearing underwire bras.
The wrestlers must come to the mat fully dressed and prepared to wrestle. If the athletes do not come to the
match prepared, they are allowed one minute to conform to the rules, otherwise risking disqualification from
the match. Under no circumstances are the athletes allowed to change their singlet mat side—this must be
done in a private area at the arena.
The MatThe official international mat consists of four distinct areas:
The Center area, which is a 7-meter diameter circle.
The Starting area, which is a one-meter circle in the very center of the mat.
The Passivity zone, which is a one-meter band around the perimeter of the Center area. The passivity zone
may be marked by taping a line of dashes inside the out-of-bounds line.
The Protection area, which should extend a minimum of 1.5 meters beyond the Passivity zone.
The inner 10-foot folkstyle circle has no meaning internationally, and when standing, the contestants start in
the middle, facing each other about a meter apart. It is not mandatory that the athletes begin the match or
subsequent restarts on any “starting” lines.
One corner of the mat should be marked in red and the other in blue, so the wrestlers and the coaches know
where to report. This can be done with colored chairs, with colored plywood under the chairs, or simply with
red and blue signs. The red corner should be on the referee’s left as he faces the judge’s table.
UWWapproved mats are not required for domestic competition.
For local and state level competitions for the age groups Schoolboy/girl and lower, mats less than full size but
not less than a quarter of a full sized (standard) mat may be used when necessary. Adequate protection
around all mats should be in place.
The protection area must be clearly marked. Each pair of wrestlers is entitled to a wrestling area devoid of
obstructions, including other wrestlers, coaches and observers, etc.
On mats where a line is used to indicate the out-of-bounds, the outermost edge of that line is considered as
the true out-of-bounds. For purposes of this rule, the line itself is still considered part of the wrestling area.
The area around the mats should be large enough to accommodate a table for the mat chairman and
volunteer clock controllers, a table for the judge, one or two score clocks, and any necessary video equipment
used. There should still remain adequate space for the protection of the athletes.
The Refereeing BodyAll officials should look professional and well groomed. Jewelry, outside of a wedding ring and watch to accurately
determine the end time of a match, should not be worn. The official’s uniform for the USWOA shall include: a black
polo shirt, black or gray trousers, black belt, black socks and black shoes. The officials will wear a blue armband on
their right wrist and a red armband on their left wrist. They shall have a functioning whistle and lanyard available.
If possible, each bout should consist of three officials—a mat chairman, a referee, and a judge. However, if the size
of the tournament at local, state, and regional events exceeds the available number of officials, it is acceptable to not
use three officials. Decisions must be made unanimously or by majority in all cases of judgment. The mat chairman
is seen as the leader of the crew, whose opinion is only necessary when the referee and judge disagree in
evaluation of the match. However, it is necessary that the mat chairman approve all cases of fall, all cautions, and in
all cases of passivity in both F/S and G/R. In no way is the mat chairman allowed to change the call of the referee or
judge without consultation of the entire crew. It is also the duty of the mat chairman to consult with his or her crew
when they see a blatant misapplication of a rule or an obvious mistake. If a challenge is requested by the coach or
athlete, the mat chairman, along with the assigned UWW delegate or USA Wrestling head official, will watch the
video of the action in question to decide the most appropriate score. Under no circumstance may the mat chairman
ask to review the video of a scoring situation if no official challenge has been presented by either athlete or coach.
The mat chairman is the only person that is allowed to confer with the coaches if they have a question.
The judge’s duties include calling actions and holds as they see them. They may initiate calls, including falls, if they
feel the referee was not in proper position to evaluate those actions. The referee’s main duties include maintaining
the safety of the wrestlers at all times, starting and stopping the match appropriately, and in most cases, being the
first to offer their judgment in evaluating actions. It is essential for the referees to move with the wrestlers and
anticipate the actions of the wrestlers to be in the best position to evaluate actions as they occur.
The referee shall use proper UWW vocabulary in a loud and assertive manner during the course of a match to
inform the wrestlers to be more offensive, to stay in the center of the mat, or to warn them about any impending
penalties they may be subject to if they do not change what they are doing. It is also essential that the referee use
hand gestures to indicate which wrestler is being warned to help the other officials, coaches and spectators
understand what they are looking for. UWW vocabulary includes:
ACTION: to inform one or both wrestlers to wrestle more aggressively and actively try to improve position or
to attempt more scoring actions.
CONTACT: to inform a wrestler to place his/her hands on the back of their opponent in a par terre starting
position or to assume body-to-body contact in the standing position. This term is often used for wrestlers who
are failing to engage holds with their opponent.
OPEN: the wrestler must alter their position to allow their opponent to take hold. Often used when wrestlers
are “clammed up” while in par terre, interlocking fingers, or blocking holds of their opponent in a standing
position.
NO BLOCK: used to warn a wrestler that they are using their hands, arms or head to block offensive activity
from his or her opponent and must change tactics to allow their opponent to take hold.
ATTENTION: used to warn wrestlers of an illegal action or impending penalty. Often tied to passivity or
fleeing type actions as well as potential leg fouls in Greco-Roman.
HEAD UP: used to inform the wrestler to raise their head to avoid using the head as a weapon and/or
blocking tool.
CONTINUE: used if the wrestlers stop due to confusion (a whistle on an adjacent mat, e.g.) or if the wrestlers
should continue an action where a potential score is developing slowly.
ZONE: used to inform a wrestler that they have entered the 1 meter outer perimeter of the mat area and that
they are close to going into the protection area.
CENTER: used to inform the wrestlers to attain position away from the out-of-bounds and closer to the
starting area on the mat
PLACE: used to inform the defensive wrestler in par terre that they are getting close to the boundary and
should make an effort to stay in the wrestling area.
NO FINGERS: this is to inform the wrestlers to quit grabbing or interlocking fingers from any position on the
mat. If twisting is involved, this is an illegal hold and should be penalized immediately. If a wrestler continues
to grab fingers after a verbal “open” command has been given, the wrestler at fault will be penalized with a
caution and his opponent will receive one (F/S) or two points (G/R).
Call to the MatThe wrestlers are either called to the mat or their bout number and assigned mat are indicated on a revolving
TrackWrestling/FloWrestling screen located at the wrestling venue. Wrestlers are only guaranteed a 15 minute rest
between bouts in all styles (20 minutes per UWW rules to only be used in UWW events). However, this rule will not
apply to events that serve as a world championship trials event or qualifier for a trials event where the rest time will
be 30 minutes. If a wrestler is not present at the time of his/her bout, they will be called over a loudspeaker three
times at 30-second intervals. If after the third call the wrestler is not present, he/she will be disqualified from that
match and the opponent will win by default.
Interruption of the BoutThe referee is obligated to stop the match if they determine a situation to be potentially dangerous and could
possibly cause harm to either wrestler. The mat chairman should also have an active role in recognizing
potentially dangerous actions and inform the referee if they believe the match should be stopped. Wrestling
will restart in the standing position.
If a wrestler is clearly injured/bleeding, the bout must be stopped immediately, and the wrestler must be
attended to by medical staff. Coaches are allowed to attend to the injured or bleeding wrestler but must not
interfere with the medical staff or use the time to coach the wrestler. The unaffected wrestler must remain on
the mat at all times but can be attended by coaches. The medical staff will determine bleeding management
versus injury time and take appropriate actions. Bleeding time is limited to Four (4) minutes from the time the
medical staff declares bleeding time. If the bleeding time exceeds four minutes (4) the bout is awarded to
opponent as a medical default. Clean up time is not considered part of the Bleeding time. If the wrestler that
is injured/bleeding was the defensive wrestler while in par terre, wrestling will resume in the par terre position.
If it was the offensive wrestler, wrestling will resume in the standing position. SEE APPENDIX A
Injury Time is unlimited if the medical staff requests the time and referee grants the time. The medical staff
must determine when injury is assessed and recovery time is completed. If the medical staff allows the
wrestler to continue, the wrestler must be instructed that any additional stoppage for this injury in the bout
could result in a point being awarded to opponent in the 16U categories and older. It is the refereeing team’s
discretion to award a point to the opponent for an athlete who repeatedly stops the match for injury
management. Medical staff will only serve to assess and treat injuries and determine if a wrestler can safely
continue in the match.
The coach may not request recovery time and abuse could result in the refereeing team issuing a yellow card.
If the bout cannot be continued due to medical reasons, the competition doctor/trainer in charge has the full
authority to not allow the injured athlete to continue. This decision cannot be contested. SEE APPENDIX A
No athlete is allowed to take the initiative to interrupt the bout by choosing to wrestle in the standing position
from par terre or by pulling his opponent back to the center from the edge of the mat. If after an “attention” the
athlete does this again, they will be penalized by a caution and one point (F/S) or caution and two points
(G/R) to their opponent.
Athletes should be given a reasonable amount of time to complete actions from all positions, assuming an
action is imminent. If, however, the athlete is given multiple opportunities to score a given action to no avail or
has been given adequate time to develop a scoring maneuver to no avail, the referee shall stop the match
and restart the wrestlers in a standing position. Confirmation for this procedure is not required. There is no time limit that dictates when the referee should stop the match. If the offensive wrestler is working hard towards a scoring maneuver and not “faking it”, the referee is obliged to allow this to continue as long as they like.
Out-of-bounds is determined by:1. one opponent having the entirety of their foot outside the boundary area while in a standing position2. the whole head of the defensive wrestler touches the protection area while in par terre3. the pinning points/chest of the defensive wrestler, while in par terre, are in the protection area, but not
necessarily touching the protection area. 4. if, while in the standing position, the offensive wrestler has his/her opponent lifted completely off the
mat and is in complete control, the offensive wrestler steps with both feet outside of the boundary, this
will be deemed to be out-of-bounds. In this same scenario, the offensive wrestler will be allowed to
finish his/her throw if they have one foot outside the boundary and complete their action in one
continuous motion but should be stopped immediately once two feet step outside the boundary,
assuming no throwing action has started yet.
If a line is used to indicate the out-of-bounds, the outside portion of that line is considered the true “out-of-
bounds.” If a wrestler starts an action while in the wrestling area, that action will be allowed to continue and
scored appropriately if it goes out-of-bounds, regardless of which athlete touches the protection area first.
However, counteractions cannot be scored out-of-bounds. For example, if Red starts a head and arm throw in bounds causing Blue to go to his or her back out-of-bounds and then Blue initiates a roll through, only the head and arm throw should score. The roll through is not valid since Blue went out-of-bounds prior to starting the roll through.
All illegal actions (fleeing the hold, fleeing the mat, leg fouls in G/R) should be scored appropriately with
wrestling resuming in the position in which the infractions occurred. Control is not required to determine what
position the wrestlers will restart after a fleeing the hold or fleeing the mat scenario. Par terre simply refers to
mat wrestling, defined as the defensive wrestler being on his/her knees on the mat; control is not required to
be in this position. For example, if Red snaps Blue down into a front headlock with Blue’s knees on the mat and Blue decides to back himself out of bounds to avoid being turned, fleeing the mat could be called and the wrestlers would restart in par terre, Red being on top.
All lifts that start in a par terre position where a foul occurs by the defensive wrestler in the process of being
lifted and/or thrown should be restarted in par terre.
If a challenge is requested by a coach immediately after the refereeing body has awarded or failed to award a
potential scoring action, the mat chairman will order the referee to stop the bout when the athletes have
attained a non-pinning position and no more scoring is imminent. If the athlete chooses to not want to challenge, it is his or her prerogative to inform the referee that they don’t want to challenge prior to the review being initiated. Referees will no longer ask the athlete if they want to challenge. The mat
chairman and head official will then review the video of the last scoring action and determine the proper
scoring decision. The only situations in which a challenge will not be allowed is in the case of a confirmed fall
or in situations of passivity. The actions leading to the fall or the time left in the match before the confirmed
fall can be challenged, but the fall itself is not challengeable. The challenge is only available at designated
national and regional competitions.
Note: Video Challenge Policies are attached as an addendum.
End of the BoutBouts may be won by:
Fall: commonly referred to as “pin.” In the Schoolboy/girl level and younger, falls are two seconds of
shoulder/scapulae compression. A hand motion indicating the two count is recommended. At the Cadet level
through Seniors, controlled compression of the shoulder/scapulae simultaneously is necessary to obtain a
fall. There is no such thing as a “touch” fall. Falls in the protection area are not valid—the head of the
defensive wrestler must be in bounds for a fall to be considered valid. The referee and/or judge raises the
hand (or paddle) of the offensive wrestler to request confirmation from the mat chairman for a fall. It is not
obligatory for all three officials to offer an opinion when a fall call is requested, but the mat chairman must
approve of the fall for it to be official. Once the fall is confirmed by the mat chairman, the referee should
gently slap the mat and blow their whistle to end the match. The mat chairman, if not in the best position to
see a fall, should respect the position of the referee and judge in relation to the athletes in determining
whether a fall has been attained in making his or her official decision. Video
By injury, withdrawal, default, or disqualification of the opponent (brutality or 3 cautions for rules infractions or
2 defensive leg fouls in G/R)
By technical superiority—USA rules indicate that technical superiority is a difference in ten (10) points for F/S
and G/R at the Junior level and younger. At the U23, Senior, UWW Cadet, UWW Junior and Masters events,
technical superiority is 10 points in F/S and 8 points in G/R. If a wrestler attains the point difference for
technical superiority during the course of completing an action and the defending wrestler immediately
produces a counter attack in bounds, that counter attack is valid and should be scored. In other words, there
can be no pause from the offensive action to the counter action. If after that scoring sequence there is no
longer technical superiority, the match should continue without stoppage. It is the duty of the mat chairman to
inform the referee to stop the match if technical superiority has been attained. Video
By decision—one opponent has scored more points or has won based off of criteria.
If the point total is equal at the end of a match, the following criteria will determine the winner, in this order:
1. Highest value scoring actions (most 5 point actions, most 4 point actions, most 2 point actions)2. Least number of accrued cautions3. Last point scored
Once the bout has concluded, the mat chairman should confirm the winner by holding his/her hand or paddle in the
offensive wrestler has not passed behind the defensive wrestler. The hips of the defensive athlete
must be covered for the offensive wrestler to achieve a takedown.
REVERSAL: awarded to the defensive wrestler who is able to overcome the dominant offensive wrestler from
a par terre position and gain control. All reversals are worth one point. Video
FEET TO BACK: where the offensive wrestler causes his or her opponent, from a standing position, to go into
an immediate danger position on the mat. The offensive wrestler may be on his or her knees for this to
occur. These actions must be continuous—any pause by the wrestlers on the mat prior to the defensive
wrestler going to danger will only result in two points. All feet to back actions are scored four points. If a “feet
to back” situation is considered to be “grand amplitude,” that action should be scored five points (see below).
Video
FLEEING THE MAT: where either wrestler goes out-of-bounds voluntarily and makes no effort to stay in the
center wrestling area. This can occur in either standing or par terre wrestling. This is penalized by a caution
to the wrestler at fault and one point (F/S) or two points (G/R) to the opponent assuming the defensive
wrestler in not in danger. Restarts following a fleeing the mat call shall start in the position in which the
infraction occurred. Video
SPECIAL SITUATION: IF THE DEFENSIVE WRESTLER FLEES THE MAT WHILE IN THE DANGER POSITION, THE WRESTLER AT FAULT SHALL RECEIVE A CAUTION AND THE OPPONENT SHALL RECEIVE TWO POINTS IN BOTH F/S AND G/R. WRESTLERS SHOULD RESTART IN THE PAR TERRE POSITION.
FLEEING THE HOLD: where either wrestler is avoiding contact with their opponent to prevent being scored
upon. This can occur in either standing or par terre wrestling at any point in a match, but most often occurs
when time is running out. Restarts following a fleeing the hold call shall start in the position in which the
infraction occurred. Video Recommended Procedure: If the officiating team recognizes fleeing the hold,
they should stop and give an “attention” to the wrestler at fault assuming there is adequate time left in the
period. If the same wrestler continues to flee the hold, then the referee should stop and ask for a caution and
1 point (F/S) or two points (G/R). Agreement from the mat chairman is necessary for this call to be valid. By
blowing the whistle, this will stop the clock so that there is time left in the bout if the call is confirmed.
It is permissible to make this call with less than 15 seconds remaining in the match without a formal stoppage. In this situation, the referee shall loudly and clearly warn the defensive wrestler to “contact” or “take hold.” If the defensive wrestler continues to not take hold, the referee must stop the match prior to time running out and ask for a caution and one point (F/S) or two points (G/R) to his or her opponent. LEG FOULS: actively using the legs to score upon or prevent being scored on in G/R wrestling. The
defensive wrestler in G/R cannot bend or raise either or both of his legs to prevent a hold being executed.
The defensive wrestler is also prohibited from creating a figure 4 with his own leg in order to prevent the top wrestler from stepping in between their legs during par terre wrestling. Brushing of the legs or
any other inadvertent contact with the legs during G/R wrestling should be ignored. Referees should point to
a leg foul when they observe it. If the foul is being committed by the defensive wrestler and there is no
imminent threat of harm to either wrestler, the action should be allowed to be continued and scored properly.
Once the offensive scoring action has been completed or stopped and confirmation of the foul has been given
by the judge or mat chairman, the referee should stop the bout, signal a caution for the wrestler at fault, and
score two points for the offensive wrestler. Restarts should happen in the position in which the foul occurred.
If the offensive wrestler commits a leg foul, he or she is given a strict “attention” and the wrestling restarts in a
standing position. If the offensive wrestler commits another leg foul after the warning, that wrestler is then
given a caution and one point to his opponent for an illegal action. Defensive Leg Foul Video, Offensive Leg
IF A WRESTLER COMMITS TWO DEFENSIVE LEG FOULS, THEY ARE DISQUALIFIED FROM THE MATCH. THEY ARE ALLOWED TO CONTINUE WRESTLING IN THE TOURNAMENT IF THIS LOSS DOES NOT CAUSE THEM TO BE ELIMINATED FROM THE COMPETITION.
GRAND AMPLITUDE: any action or hold by the offensive wrestler from a standing position that causes his or
her opponent to lose contact with the mat, makes him or her describe a broadly sweeping curve (vertical line)
in the air and brings them to the mat. In G/R, it is essential that the offensive wrestler accompany their
opponent to the mat. If a grand amplitude throw lands directly in danger, five points shall be awarded. If a
grand amplitude throw is executed but the defensive wrestler does not land in danger, four points will be
awarded. Video
STARTING POSITION: in the standing position, athletes shall start the match in the one meter starting area
while facing each other. It is not essential for the athletes to be in contact with any start line if using a folkstyle
type mat. In the ordered par terre position, the bottom wrestler shall lie flat on their stomach with their arms stretched out in front and their legs stretched out to the back (neither the arms or legs can be touching or crossed). The bottom wrestler may have their head on or raised above the mat. The top wrestler places BOTH their knees behind the arms of the bottom wrestler. The top wrestler must be positioned to either side of the bottom wrestler and is not allowed to straddle the opponent in any fashion. When ordered, the top wrestler places their hands between the scapulae of the top wrestler without hesitation at which point the referee will blow the whistle. The bottom wrestler is allowed to work themselves to a standing position, if they choose. See image below.
Further, in G/R, it is illegal for the bottom wrestler to jump or lunge forward at the start. An attention is offered as the
initial warning, followed by caution to the bottom wrestler and two points to the top wrestler for any incorrect starts or
subsequent “jumps.” In this case, wrestling shall restart in par terre. When setting up for ordered par terre, the top wrestler must immediately move to the proper position and place their hands on the back of their opponent without hesitation. They are not allowed to “dance” around the mat or delay the start in any manner.
STEP-OUT: if the attacking wrestler steps out first while in the process of an action, the following situations
may occur:
If the action is completed, the points will be scored as appropriate
being called for passivity versus fleeing the hold.
If after restarting the match, the actions that lead to the “attention” persist, the referee should stop the bout, signal for
a caution to the less active wrestler and score one point to the opponent.
Greco Roman Passivity Procedure-FOR ALL AGE GROUPS
There are three scenarios in which the refereeing team needs to stimulate a match with a passivity call:
1. Score is 0-0 and wrestlers have had adequate time to score in the standing position2. Score is tied and one wrestler is clearly more active.3. One wrestler has the lead and his opponent acts too defensively.
1st passivity violation in a match, regardless of wrestler (given after referee uses UWW vocabulary to stimulate “passive” wrestler):
• Referee signals passivity with an open hand and outstretched arm, gets confirmation from the mat chairman.
Upon confirmation, the referee stops the bout, the active wrestler is awarded one point and given the option to
continue wrestling standing or on top in the par terre position.
2nd passivity violation, regardless of wrestler:
• Referee signals passivity with an open hand and outstretched arm, gets confirmation from the mat chairman.
Upon confirmation, the referee stops the bout, the active wrestler is awarded one point and given the option to
continue wrestling standing or on top in the par terre position.
3rd and any subsequent passivity violation
• Referee signals passivity with an open hand and outstretched arm, gets confirmation from the mat chairman. To
indicate confirmation is received, referee raises hand indicating the passive wrestler. Active wrestler is awarded one
point while not interrupting bout. Choice of position is not given in this or any subsequent passivity violation.
No more than two ordered par terre positions can be given in a bout. The restriction limiting to only one
ordered par terre per period is no longer in effect. Time restrictions for offering passivity have been eliminated.
Sufficient time should be offered to the top wrestler when in an ordered par terre position to allow for the
development of scoring actions.
*NO FORMAL “VERBAL” WARNING IS GIVEN TO INSTITUTE THE G/R PASSIVITY PROTOCOL IN ANY AGE
CATEGORY OTHER THAN THE REFEREE STIMULATING THE WRESTLERS DURING THE COURSE OF THE
BOUT.
All passivities shall be denoted by a “P” on the match paperwork.
It is possible for acts that are deemed to be passive early on in a period, could be considered fleeing the hold or
negative wrestling (see next section) if done later in a period, especially with short time on the clock (less than 30
seconds). If the referee wants to warn a wrestler for fleeing the hold or negative wrestling, they should stop the
match and offer a verbal “attention” to the wrestler at fault. This way, the athletes, coaches, and fans will be able to
differentiate when a wrestler is being called for passivity versus fleeing the hold/negative wrestling.
If after restarting the match, the actions that lead to the “attention” persist, the referee should stop the match and
signal for a caution for the less active wrestler. Check for confirmation. A caution should be given to the less active
wrestler and two points should be awarded to his opponent.
Negative WrestlingTactics employed by wrestlers whose only objective is to prevent scoring actions, avoid “open” wrestling, or
deliberately cause harm to their opponent are considered negative wrestling. This can include, but is not limited to:
Interlocking fingers
Blocking the opponent with one’s head, one or two hands to the face, or blocking at the opponent’s chest
Fleeing the mat or fleeing the hold
Brutality
Two approaches can be taken by the referee team to penalize a wrestler for negative wrestling:
1. Referee stops match and gives the wrestler an “Attention,” clarifying to them what they need to change. If the
negative wrestling persists, the referee should stop match, ask for a caution and award one point (F/S) or two
points (G/R) to opponent. The mat chairman must confirm this call to be valid.2. If the negative wrestling prevents an active scoring action or is considered beyond fair play (i.e. brutality), the
referee can ask for a caution and one point (F/S) or two points (G/R) immediately without a formal “Attention.”
The mat chairman must confirm this call to be valid.
Negative wrestling must be strictly applied in both styles.
Illegal Actions and HoldsILLEGAL ACTIONS AND HOLDS IN ALL AGE DIVISIONS
Pulling the hair, ears, genitals, pinch the skin, bite, twist fingers or toes.
Kick, head-butt, push, apply force against a joint or the spine, step on the feet of his opponent or touch the
face of his or her opponent between the eyebrows and line of the mouth.
Thrusting the elbow or knee into an opponent..
Grabbing the singlet.
Clinging to or grasping the mat.
Talking during the bout.
Seizing the sole of the opponent’s foot or toes (only seizing the upper part of the foot is permitted).
Agreeing to the match result between themselves.
Throat holds or any other position of strangulation.
Any hold where the defensive wrestler’s head is cinched between his or her chest and the offensive wrestler’s
body, most commonly seen in standing front headlock maneuvers, where the pressure is not applied to the
side.
Twisting of arms more than 90° including forming an acute angle with the forearm in an armbar situation.
Arm lock applied to the forearm.
Holding the head or neck with two hands in any position without an arm encircled.
Full Nelson, unless executed from the side without legs trapped. *NOTE: all full nelsons from the UWW Cadet Level and younger are illegal in all applications. Full nelsons are also illegal in female wrestling at all levels.In a standing position where the defensive wrestler has attained a “pike” position (head down with legs
extended into the air), all actions must occur to the side. It is strongly recommended that referees bear
caution with this action at the kids level.
Lifting the opponent who is in a bridge position and throwing him or her to the mat.
Breaking the bridge by pushing the offensive wrestler’s face or head.
Figure four or scissors of anything other than one leg or arm. This includes a “leg cradle.”
In G/R, actively using the legs from an offensive or defensive position.
In G/R, while in par terre, when the defensive wrestler does not keep BOTH ARMS extended and open or
grabbing the hands or arms of the offensive wrestler to prevent being scored upon. The defensive wrestler is
not allowed to “close” off while defending in par terre. In G/R, if the offensive wrestler lifts the defensive
wrestler, the only tactics the defensive wrestler can use is to push off the torso of the offensive wrestler or
post one arm of the offensive wrestler to prevent being scored upon. Otherwise, the defensive wrestler may
not use their hands in any other ways to prevent being scored upon.
In G/R, when the defensive wrestler raises or bends his legs in par terre to prevent being lifted and/or being
scored upon. If the defensive wrestler is defending a lift and raises their leg opposite in the direction in which
the lift is being directed, this is permissible.
In G/R and F/S, the defensive wrestler in par terre must maintain center mat position. They are allowed to
defend an action by inching forward or moving side to side to alter the position of the offensive wrestler, but
they are strictly forbidden from “swimming” towards the edge of the mat. If this occurs, the referee must move
in front of the defensive wrestler, yell “attention, stop” to the defensive wrestler. If the “swimming” persists,
caution and one/two point/s to the offensive wrestler shall be awarded for fleeing the hold.
Illegal holds in the Kids Division (Schoolboy/girl on down) include:
Slam--lifting and returning an opponent to the mat with unnecessary force. May be committed by a contestant
in either the top or bottom position, as well as during a takedown. A wrestler who lifts his/her opponent off the
mat is responsible for his/her safe return. When a contestant is returned to the mat with undue force, so the
upper half of his/her body contacts the mat first, it is a slam.
Three-quarter nelson with a leg hook.
Cross-chest cradle, West Point ride, Colorado or Iron Cross.
Double arm bar with sit-out (double chicken wing).
Neck wrench--grasping the opponent’s chin and twisting the neck. Grasping the chin is not in itself a violation,
but pulling and twisting is illegal and potentially dangerous and threatens injury to the vertebrae. This situation
can develop quickly from attempting to neutralize a double-leg takedown, from countering a single-leg,
reaching back from the down position, and in executing at least one form of fireman’s carry. The neck must
not be forced beyond normal limits.
In any case, it is the discretion of the officiating crew of what constitutes a potentially dangerous situation and
whether or not the match should be stopped for the safety and overall benefit of the athletes. This is especially
important with Kids level wrestlers.
In most cases, if the attacking wrestler is found to have violated the rules during execution of a hold, the action in
question shall be completely void and on the first offense, the referee shall give an “attention” to the attacking
wrestler at fault. If the attacker repeats his or her violation, he or she will be punished by a caution and one point
being awarded to his or her opponent. If the defending wrestler, by an illegal action, prevents his or her opponent
from developing their hold, the defending wrestler will be given a strict “attention” by the referee during the course of
the match (assuming there are no safety concerns with either athlete) to warn them of an infraction in the rules. If
the illegal action persists, the referee will stop the match and caution the wrestler at fault. If confirmation from the
mat chairman is attained, his or her opponent will receive one point. If a Kids (schoolboy/girl and younger) level
wrestler is injured by an illegal hold and is unable to continue, the wrestler at fault is disqualified. However, if a
cadet level or older wrestler is injured and the officiating crew deems it not to be considered brutality, the injured
wrestler will lose by injury default.
BrutalityIt is against the rules to intentionally inflict pain on the opponent by using unnecessary roughness with the clear
intent to injure an opponent. The wrestler who uses these types of holds and moves will be disqualified from the
match they are competing in, and may be disqualified from the tournament. If the officials decide to call brutality
against a wrestler, it must be unanimous among all three officials. Any calls for the wrestler who committed brutality
to be removed from the tournament will be reviewed by the head official.
The CoachEach athlete is allowed two people in his or her corner during each bout. Coaches, doctors, trainers, photographers,
etc. count against this two person limit. If the competition doctor or trainer allows, the coach can assist their athlete
during injury treatment. The coach is strictly forbidden from stepping onto the wrestling surface away from their
designated corner. The coach is also strictly forbidden from influencing the decisions or insulting the refereeing
body. He or she may only speak to their athlete. The coach is allowed to give the athlete water or a sports drink
during the break. It is the duty of the coach to wipe his or her wrestler of sweat during the break using a dry towel.
If these restrictions are not observed, the referee is obliged to ask the mat chairman to present the coach with a
YELLOW card (warning); if the coach persists, the mat chairman will present him or her with a RED card
(elimination). The mat chairman may also present a yellow or red card on his or her own initiative. The name of the
coach given a yellow or red card shall be noted on the bout sheet.
A yellow card may be given to a coach for misconduct/unsportsmanlike behavior. A red card may be given to a
coach for continued and/or repeated misconduct/unsportsmanlike behavior (second yellow card), or may be given
for severe misconduct/unsportsmanlike behavior. When a yellow/red card is issued to a coach, the official shall
inform the coach, team leader, and tournament director. If a red card is given, the credentials of the coach will be
taken and the coach must leave the arena. The coach is not allowed to be present for the remainder of the
competition.
Classification PointsAlthough most regional and national tournaments have gone to a straight-line bracket format, some individual states
still offer a vertical pairing format for brackets at their events. Because of that, it is important to understand the
classification points given to the athletes following a bout. This system is also used to determine team points in F/S
or G/R style dual events for USA Wrestling. Also, in international tournaments, classification points are used for
placing purposes.
For the winner: 5
For the loser: 0
Fall (Pin); Injury Default, Disqualification for misconduct;
Disqualification for 3 cautions; Failure to make weight at 2nd day
weigh-in at Cadet/Jr. Nationals
For the winner: 4
For the loser: 0Technical superiority, loser scores no technical points.
For the winner: 4
For the loser: 1Technical superiority, loser scored technical points.
For the winner: 3
For the loser: 0Decision, loser scores no technical points
For the winner: 3
For the loser: 1Decision, loser scores technical points
For the winner: 0
For the loser: 0Both wrestlers are disqualified for brutality; Both wrestlers forfeit
2020 Points of Emphasis1. For all age divisions 14U and younger, the straight back suplay or salto is now LEGAL.2. Medical service regulations have been updated for 2020. Please see Appendix A.
Video Challenge ProceduresWhat constitutes a challenge:
The challenge is a process where the coach is allowed, on behalf of the wrestlers, to stop the match and request the
jury and mat chairman to watch the video if they disagree with the call by the referee team. This process will be
available at USA Wrestling events that are designated for video review.
Who is on the jury?
The jury will be comprised of 1 or 2 referees that are assigned to that bout or mat during the competition.
Who will conduct the video review?
This will be completed by the jury and the mat chairman for that designated bout.
What is the process?
1. The coach must issue a request for challenge when they disagree with the decision of the referee team. This
should be made from the coaching area on the mat and coach can not walk into the wrestling area.
2. Challenges will be requested by throwing a colored object (challenge block) onto the mat to notify the referee
team. The color of the object will correspond to the color of the athlete. The challenge block should not be thrown in
an aggressive manner toward the referee or athletes. Failure to follow these guidelines could result in a yellow or
red card for the coach.
3. The mat chairman will indicate to the referee to stop the match to review the challenge as soon as the
situation becomes neutral or there is no longer imminent scoring.
4. If the wrestler disagrees with the challenge, they can reject the challenge and resume the match. If the coach
requests a challenge after the athlete has rejected the challenge, the coach could receive a yellow card.
5. Only the mat chairman and/or jury can refuse the challenge during the following situations. Challenges will
not be accepted for:
a. Confirmed falls and/or situations where a fall was not confirmed by the referee team. Challenges can be
requested for fouls that occurred that led to the fall.
b. Confirmed passivity.
c. Challenges not made in a reasonable amount of time. Coaches must issue the challenge within a
reasonable amount of time from when the scoring action occurred or when the points went onto the scoreboard.
Wrestling is dynamic and this will be at the discretion of the mat chairman and jury.
d. Challenges made after the match has ended. The only exceptions will be for when points are added to the
scoreboard after the time was out or when an action occurred just before the end of the bout.
6. The video will be displayed on a big screen monitor, projector or TV if one is available for the competition. If
one is not available, the jury and mat chairman can watch the video directly on the mat side computer.
7. If there is a technical problem and video is not available, the original decision will stand, and the coach will be
given back the challenge block.
8. Each wrestler will be entitled 1 challenge per match.
9. If after review, the original decision is changed by the jury and mat chairman to be in favor of the wrestler who
requested the challenge, then they will be granted another challenge to be used during that match.
10. If after review, the decision is confirmed by the jury and mat chairman or is not in favor of the challenging
wrestler, that wrestler will lose the challenge and their opponent will be granted 1-point.
11. There are two other situations that could result in time being added back on the clock following a challenge.
a. If a scoring action was determined to be a slip throw/”risk” by the jury. The time will be set when the slip
throw occurred. Any points scored after the slip occurred will be cancelled.
b. If a scoring action or confirmed fall was determined to be a direct result of an offensive foul by the jury, the
time will be set when the foul occurred.
12. All decisions made by the jury and mat chairman will be final and will not be changed. Therefore, it is not
possible to request a counter challenge.
13. Coaches will be allowed to ask the mat chairman for a clarification of the score as viewed on the scoreboard,
who is winning the match on criteria if the score is tied, and/or time left in a match prior to issuing a challenge. In no
way is a coach allowed to ask why a specific scoring situation was scored the way it was or to request that the
referees have a consultation to discuss a scoring issue.
Age Divisions and Weight ClassesLink to: USAW and UWW Age Divisions and Weight Charts
USAW Modification for Folkstyle Events with Video ChallengeBracketing
Double-elimination line-bracketing with complete wrestle-backs to eighth (8th) place for the Kids, 16U and Junior
Divisions and third (3rd) place for the Veteran's division. All KIDS brackets will include matches for True 2nd if the
wrestler finishing 2nd has not already wrestled the wrestler finishing in 3rd, there will be NO TRUE 2ND FOR 16U & JUNIORS.
Separation Criteria
Level 1: Previous Champion in Style and Age Group
Level 2: Previous 2nd-8th place in Style and Age Group, Previous Champion in Style and One Age Group Younger
Level 3: Previous Champion out of style in Age Group, Previous 2nd-8th place in Style and One Age Group Younger
Level 4: Separation by State
PERIOD LENGTHS
8U & 10U:
Championship Bracket Periods 1:00, 1:00, 1:00
Consolation Bracket Periods 1:00, 1:00, 1:00
12U & 14U:
Championship Bracket Periods 1:00, 1:30, 1:30
Consolation Bracket Periods 1:00, 1:00, 1:00
16U & Junior:
Championship Bracket Periods 2:00, 2:00, 2:00
Consolation Bracket Periods 1:00, 2:00, 2:00
Veterans:
Championship Bracket Periods 1:00, 1:30, 1:30
Consolation Bracket Periods 1:00, 1:00, 1:00
BRACKET CHANGES WILL BE MADE UP UNTIL 1 HOUR PRIOR TO THE START OF THE WRESTLING SESSION. Please contact the tournament director with any issues (ie: wrestler missing from bracket or incorrect weight) by email at least 2 HOURS PRIOR to the start of the wrestling session or please come to the head table.